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Cornell University’s Johnson School of Management offers a highly respected MBA program known for its strong career outcomes, global network, and hands-on learning approach. The program attracts students worldwide, aiming to build leadership skills and advance their careers in top industries. However, pursuing an MBA at Cornell requires careful financial planning due to the high costs involved.
Understanding Cornell MBA fees is essential before applying. The total cost includes tuition, housing, health insurance, and other mandatory expenses. While the fees may seem high, various funding options like scholarships, grants, and loans can help manage the cost. This guide provides a complete breakdown of Cornell MBA fees, along with insights into financial aid, so you can plan your MBA journey wisely.
How Much Does the Cornell MBA Cost?
If you're planning to pursue an MBA at Cornell University, understanding the total cost is essential. The Two-Year Cornell MBA Program comes with specific tuition fees and other mandatory expenses. Knowing these details can help you plan your finances better.
For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition for the Two-Year MBA is $83,106. This amount is billed per semester, with payments due at the start of each term. Keep in mind that tuition fees typically increase by 3-5% each year, so it’s important to check for updates. By staying informed, you can plan ahead and manage your Cornell MBA fees effectively.
Mandatory Fees and Additional Expenses
Beyond tuition, students are responsible for several mandatory fees and estimated living expenses. These include costs associated with student activities, health insurance, and living expenses in Ithaca, NY. Below is a breakdown of additional expenses for Cornell MBA fees:
| Expense | Cost (per year) |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $83,106 |
| Student Activity Fee | $110 |
| Health Fee | $550 |
| Housing | $12,296 |
| Meals | $7,132 |
| Books & Supplies | $2,650 |
| Transportation | $3,194 |
| Miscellaneous | $2,398 |
| Total | $111,436 |
Living Costs for Cornell MBA Students
The living expenses associated with the Cornell MBA program is essential for effective financial planning. Beyond tuition, students should anticipate various costs that contribute to the overall Cornell MBA fees. Planning for these expenses ensures a smooth academic experience while staying financially prepared.
Housing and Utilities
Ithaca offers a range of housing options, with costs varying based on location and amenities. On average, students can expect to spend approximately $12,296 per academic year on housing. This amount covers rent and basic utilities, which are critical components of the overall Cornell MBA fees.
Meals
Meal expenses are estimated at $7,132 annually, covering groceries and dining out. This figure can fluctuate depending on personal eating habits and lifestyle choices. By cooking at home and budgeting meals, students can manage this aspect of Cornell MBA fees effectively.
Books and Supplies
Academic materials, including textbooks and supplies, are projected to cost around $2,650 per year. Students can reduce this expense by exploring options such as used books, digital resources, or library rentals. These savings can help offset other parts of Cornell MBA fees.
Transportation
Transportation costs, encompassing local travel and occasional trips home, are estimated at $3,194 annually. Ithaca's public transportation system and campus shuttles provide affordable and convenient travel options, helping students stay within budget for Cornell MBA fees.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Personal expenses, such as clothing, entertainment, and other incidentals, are anticipated to be approximately $2,398 per year. These costs can vary significantly based on individual spending habits but are a notable addition to the total Cornell MBA fees.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Housing | $12,296 |
| Meals | $7,132 |
| Books & Supplies | $2,650 |
| Transportation | $3,194 |
| Miscellaneous | $2,398 |
| Total | $27,670 |
To get in detailed information, visit here: Full-time MBA at Cornell | Tuition Fees & Expenses.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Cornell MBA
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Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management offers several financial aid options to help international students manage Cornell MBA fees. These include merit-based scholarships, private loans, and external funding sources, making the program more affordable.
Merit-Based Scholarships
International students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships when applying. These awards recognize academic excellence, leadership skills, and professional achievements. Scholarship amounts vary, with some covering partial tuition or more.
Loan Options for International Students
Cornell partners with lenders like Prodigy Finance and MPOWER Financing, which offer loans without requiring a U.S. co-signer. These loans help cover tuition and living expenses, allowing students to focus on their MBA.
Endowed Scholarships
Cornell Johnson also provides donor-funded scholarships based on academic performance, leadership, and specific program criteria. Eligible students are automatically considered during admission.
| Financial Aid Type | Eligibility | Amount | Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit-Based Scholarships | Academic and leadership achievements | $10,000 to partial tuition | Automatic during admission |
| Prodigy Finance Loans | International students with financial need | Based on need | Application through lender |
| Endowed Scholarships | Donor-specific criteria and academic performance | Varies | Automatic during admission |
| MPOWER Financing Loans | International students without U.S. co-signer | Based on eligibility | Application through lender |
| External Scholarships | Country-specific or international funding sources | Varies | Apply through external providers |
External Scholarships
International students can also explore scholarships from external organizations or their home countries, such as Fulbright Scholarships, to supplement funding for Cornell MBA fees.
Cornell Johnson’s Financial Aid Office provides dedicated support to help students explore and apply for the best funding options available.
To get more insights in detailed, you may visit :Cornell MBA Scholarships
Cornell MBA ROI: Is It Worth the Cost?
Earning a Cornell MBA is a valuable investment, with graduates seeing strong career outcomes. The Two-Year MBA Class of 2023 reported an average base salary of $162,808, a 5% increase from the previous year.
- U.S. graduates earned an average salary of $163,896
- International graduates earned around $160,495
- 94% of graduates received job offers within three months
- 93% accepted offers in the same period
These numbers show the strong return on investment (ROI) for Cornell MBA graduates, making the Cornell MBA fees a worthwhile expense.
Cornell MBA Cost vs. Other Top MBAs
It’s important to know the costs involved. For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition for the Two-Year Cornell MBA is $83,106. This makes up a big part of the Cornell MBA fees, so students should plan their finances carefully.
| Business School | Program Duration | Annual Tuition | Total Program Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard Business School | 2 years | $73,440 | $146,880 |
| Stanford Graduate School of Business | 2 years | $74,706 | $149,412 |
| Columbia Business School | 2 years | $77,376 | $154,752 |
While Cornell MBA program tuition is competitive among top-tier programs, prospective students should also consider additional costs such as housing, meals, and other living expenses when evaluating the total Cornell MBA fees.
How to Save Money on Cornell MBA Expenses

Getting an MBA at Cornell is expensive, but there are smart ways to cut costs. Many students save money by getting scholarships and fellowships, which can reduce Cornell MBA fees. Some external scholarships, like Fulbright and Inlaks, also help with tuition and living expenses.
If you need a loan, consider no-cosigner options from lenders like Prodigy Finance and MPOWER Financing, which are designed for international students. Working on campus as a graduate assistant can also provide extra income or tuition discounts. To save more, choose affordable housing, budget-friendly meals, and public transport instead of expensive options.
1. Apply for Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships and fellowships can lower Cornell MBA fees. External scholarships like Fulbright and Inlaks also help with tuition and living costs.
2. Consider No-Cosigner Loans: Lenders like Prodigy Finance and MPOWER Financing offer student loans without a U.S. co-signer.
3. Work On-Campus: Jobs like graduate assistantships provide stipends and sometimes tuition discounts.
4. Choose Affordable Housing: Opt for shared apartments or university housing to cut living costs.
5. Budget for Daily Expenses: Cook at home, use public transport, and take advantage of student discounts.
Welcome to Johnson
Useful Links:
- Cornell MBA GMAT
- Cornell MBA Salary
- Cornell MBA Deadlines
- Cornell MBA Essays
- Is Cornell MBA Worth it ?
- Cornell MBA Interview Questions
Conclusion
A Cornell MBA is a significant investment, but it has the potential to deliver an excellent return in terms of career growth, network expansion, and personal development. As one of the best MBA colleges in USA, Cornell University offers unparalleled opportunities. Carefully considering the Cornell MBA fees, living expenses, scholarships, and expected ROI will help you make an informed decision about pursuing an MBA at Cornell, ultimately shaping your future in the world of international business.